What schools offer a degree in parapsychology?

Betsy BogertUpdated July 20, 2017

Only a limited number of accredited schools offer degrees in parapsychology. Additionally, there are just a handful of research jobs available in the field. The majority of students work to obtain a postgraduate degree in psychology, and then do research that specialises in parapsychology. At present, there are no accredited parapsychology degrees available in the United States; however, three American universities do offer paranormal studies, as do several accredited universities in other parts of the world. Be sure to avoid "degree mills": organisations that offer academic degrees often for a fee alone, without requiring any course of study.

Center for Consciousness Studies

The University of Arizona's Center for Consciousness Studies offers workshops, conferences and online courses.

The Rhine Research Center

The Rhine Research Center, Durham, North Carolina, was formerly associated with Duke University, and offers independent study, discussion, remote-viewing and psychic experiences group forums.

International Consciousness Research Labs (ICRL)

Former associates of Princeton Engineering Anomalies Research, or PEAR, have now formed the International Consciousness Research Labs, exploring "the roles of consciousness in physical reality."

Coventry University

Coventry University in England offers a thorough introduction to all aspects of parapsychology. The course is offered online in cooperation with the university's psychology department. A degree in psychology or other social science is required, though degrees in physics or philosophy may be considered.

Edinburgh University: Koestler Parapsychology Unit

The University of Edinburgh, Scotland, recommends getting an undergraduate degree in psychology, with parapsychology modules offered in the fourth year, followed by doctorate and master's programs.

Additional British Universities

Several additional British universities offer postgraduate supervision of theses that are parapsychology-related. These include the Liverpool Hope Parapsychology Research Group, Liverpool Hope University; the Consciousness and Transpersonal Research Group at John Moores University; the University of Northampton, Centre for the Study of Anomalous Psychological Processes; and

Goldsmiths, University of London, Anomalistic Psychology Research Unit.

University of Amsterdam

The University of Amsterdam offers courses in consciousness and the paranormal.

Ultrecht University

Ultrecht University, the Netherlands, offers an online introduction to paranormal studies. Available on-campus courses further offer two-year research degrees.

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About the Author

Betsy Bogert has been a freelance writer since 1973 and a professional photographer since 1985. She edited "Probe" magazine and computer-based training programs for engineers in Germany. Bogert also authored the children's book "The Big Happy Bear," as well as "Welcome to Earth," a poetry chapbook published in the United Kingdom.